Bridge of Sighs

You’ll no doubt have seen the Bridge of Sighs, even if you don’t know it’s name. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice, and one with a rather darker history than one might expect. Let me tell you, this bridge is aptly named.

To access this bridge you have only one option, which is to go into the museum of the Doge’s Palace. If you’re unsure where to find his palace, it’s right beside San Marco’s Basilica. If you’re facing the main church doors, look to your right. That’s the place! The Doge was the ruler of the Venetian city state during the Renaissance era, and the Bridge of Sighs connects his palace directly to the prison across the Rio di Palazzo canal. As ruler it was the Doge’s duty to dispense justice, and so anyone found guilty of a crime would be led directly from the courtroom in the palace, across the bridge to the prison where they might be crammed into a cell with already had far too many occupants.

The contrast is a stark one. The Doge’s Palace is one of grandeur, learning, and elegance. To this day the prison feels stuffy, claustrophobic, and I can remember being able to smell the faint, lingering remains of what must have been a horrific stench. I must state here, dear reader, that the prison itself and the palace are now both kept clean as they are part of a museum.

Legends state that The Bridge of Sighs was named because prisoners would sigh before being led to their execution, but this practice had stopped well before the bridge was built. Rather, think of this bridge as a convict’s last look at Venice, and freedom, before they were imprisoned. From personal experience I can say that, whether it was because of a need for fresh air or otherwise, despite having been just a visitor I did feel a need to sigh!

Venice is a very popular tourist destination, and with Covid having an impact on how many people can be let anywhere in a specific day, it’s best to book your visit ahead. The only way to see the bridge from the inside is by taking a tour of the Doge’s Palace. I highly recommend this route, but there are also other ways to experience this bridge. It’s actually supposed to be one of the more romantic spots in Venice, and I suppose if you didn’t know the history, it can make for a rather pretty covered bridge. You can see the Bridge of Sighs via three other methods. The first being along the Riva degli Schiavoni. If you’re facing the pillars of San Marco’s Square, with the lagoon behind you, this bridge is the first you will encounter to your right. Look down the canal, and you’ll see a white limestone bridge. That’s her! The next place is along the Rughetta di Apollonia. You’ll have to wander further into Venice to find this one, but it will bring you, in essence, behind the basilica. From this bridge you can have the view of the Bridge of Sighs with the lagoon in the background. The third way is the best way, in my opinion. Take a gondola down the Rio di Palazzo! They can be expensive, so make sure you save up specifically for this part of your trip. You can find Gondola services just before the entrance to San Marco’s square, near the twin pillars.

If you’re only exploring Venice for the day, I suggest bringing some snacks and a few water bottles so you only have to stop for lunch. Get the most of your day! If you’re staying within the city, those aren’t really necessary. There are small cafes everywhere around Venice, you’d be hard pressed to find a series of more than two streets without some form of food vendor. Bring good walking shoes, you’ll be on your feet all day exploring. A sunhat and sunscreen would also not go amiss. If you can, get a phone case which attaches to your wrist. This will prevent thieves from grabbing your phone, and prevent you from dropping it into the canal.

Wash your hands, wear a mask, and stay safe gentle readers.